Caribbean leaders extend Holi wishes to the Hindu community

Caribbean: CARICOM leaders have extended wishes to the Hindu community on the auspicious occasion of Holi, which is known as the “Festival of colours”. Holi is an Indian festival celebrated by the Hindus. It is also observed as – Festival of Spring, Festival of Colours and Festival of Love.

This Indian festival has now become popular outside the region as well. In addition to the Indian boundaries, it is observed in Nepal, South Asian countries, including Suriname, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, South Africa, Mauritius, Fiji, Malaysia, Singapore, the UK, the USA, the Netherlands, Australia, New Zealand as well as Canada.

Recently, Europe and North America have started celebrating this festival of love, frolic, and colours.

While extending the wishes, the Government of Guyana, on behalf of President, wrote, “President Dr Irfaan Ali and First Lady Mrs Arya Ali attended a Phagwah celebration and cultural programme at the Georgetown Cricket Club this morning.

The event was hosted by High Commission of India and the Swami Vivekanand Cultural Centre.”

The event was attended by “Prime Minister, Brigadier (Ret’d), the Honourable Mark Phillips; Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the Honourable Hugh Todd; Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa and other members of the diplomatic community,” as per the government.

On the same side, the opposition leader of Trinidad and Tobago – Kamla Persad Bissessar, wished and mentioned, “Happy Holi! Holi, or Phagwa as it is known, is a festival of brotherhood, love, and joy. Today, as we continue to feel the effects of the pandemic, this festival is a timely reminder of the importance of togetherness – family and community. It is an opportunity to reflect and be thankful for life and good health.

On this auspicious day, may God bless you with prosperity, abundance, and joy.”

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Aviation of St Kitts and Nevis, as well as Premier of Nevis, Mark Brantley, had a ‘fun time to celebrate the beautiful colours’.

Brantley stated, “What a beautiful evening celebrating Phagwah with the Guyanese and Hindu community here in Nevis. Always a fun time to celebrate beautiful colours. I thank our Caribbean brothers and sisters for infusing our culture with their own and enriching the tapestry of our island life. I even met a couple from Slovakia enjoying Nevis and the festivities.
Time well spent.”